The third abdication of a monarch in 2013; power as absolute ruler over the Qatari state passes on to a new emir.
Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad, educated in the UK, has become the youngest leader in the Arab world and is a part of the Al Thani family which has held power for nearly 190 years.
"The Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, has handed over power to his son, the Heir Apparent Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. In a speech broadcast on Qatari television, he said it was time for a new generation to take over.
Rumours had been circulating for days that Sheikh Tamim, 33, was preparing to succeed his 61-year-old father. A peaceful handover is a rarity for the Gulf, where most rulers stay in place for decades, normally until they die.
Qatar-based al-Jazeera TV said Sheikh Hamad told the "ruling family and top advisers" of his decision on Monday.
Addressing the nation on Tuesday, a national holiday, Sheikh Hamad said: "I announce I am handing over power to Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani".
"I am fully certain that he is up to the responsibility, deserving of confidence, capable of shouldering the responsibility and fulfilling the mission," he said, adding that his decision was to open the way for a "young leadership".
"Our youth have proved in recent years that they are resolute people, that they comprehend the spirit of the times and participate in it," he added.
Sheikh Hamad said he had never sought power for its own sake or for personal gain, but "for the good of the nation".
State television later showed Qataris greeting the outgoing emir and Sheikh Tamim at the royal court."
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BBC World News
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